Obama campaign to host 3,200 debate watch parties

Obama campaign activists and volunteers have organized a massive debate-night effort, hosting more than 3,200 debate watch parties across 50 states for next Wednesday's debate.

"In a close election, Obama for America has always relied on its grassroots infrastructure to make the difference. That’s why OFA’s supporters are using the debate to organize their communities and share the President’s vision to keep moving our country forward. Nearly all of the watch parties will include some kind of voter contact element (phone bank, for instance)," a campaign official said.

The official said the campaign is working to organize more parties.

The Obama campaign will blast out targeted emails to supporters and voters on their email list, inviting them to the nearest debate watch party.

"Thousands of folks just like you will watch at volunteer-organized parties across the country, all coming together to cheer on President Obama," the email will said. "So whether you're looking forward to the company, the competition, or the policy, I hope you can make it out to the debate watch party in [city] this Wednesday."

Vice President Joe Biden will also hold a livestream conversation with supporters across the country on debate night.

While both campaigns have been lowering expectations in advance of next week's debate, the Obama campaign is also using the opportunity to engage supporters and recruit volunteers.